Roll out of malaria vaccines to begin in Kebbi, Bayelsa- NMEP

Nigeria will soon introduce malaria vaccines as part of efforts to reduce its prevalence in the country.

National Coordinator of the
National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Dr. Godwin Ntadom revealed this at a media chat on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said the roll out of the malaria vaccine will begin in Bayelsa and Kebbi States before the end of 2024.

“So far, only Cameroon and Kenya have commenced the use of malaria vaccine. Nigeria will start the use in some states, starting with Kebbi and Bayelsa states and then extend it to other parts of the country”, he said.

The NMEP boss also stated that considering the high burden of malaria in the country, resulting in 31% global death, his office in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, is committed to reducing malaria prevalence to 10% by 2025.

He said, “We have deployed new strategies. First, we provide anti-malaria medicines. We also distribute nets and most recently we have started the seasonal malaria chemo-preventive treatment, especially in the northern parts of the country where malaria is very prevalent. We have also received very good commendations and I must tell you, the mortality in that region has reduced”.

The National Coordinator said though Nigeria has recorded continuous reduction of malaria prevalence, it will continue to work until it is reduced to the barest minimum.

Dr Ntadom urged those with symptoms of fever to seek adequate medical attention from proper diagnosis and treatment within 24 hours. He also charged children and pregnant women to ensure they cover themselves with treated mosquito nets to prevent them from getting malaria.

On his part, the Head of Advocacy Communication and Social Mobilization NMEP, Mr Raphael Onyilo emphasized the importance of the media chat, stating that journalists are key to enlightening and educating the citizens on malaria.

According to him, adequate knowledge of the preventive measures and timely dissemination of information are necessary ingredients to enhance journalists’ participation in the programme.

Mr Onyilo urged media houses to design health programmes that will educate Nigerians on the dangers of malaria, its prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Also speaking, the Monitoring and Evaluation Manager of Civil Society in Malaria Immunisation and Nutrition (ACOMIN), Mrs Lovelyn Agbor-Gabriel advocated a stronger collaboration between the NMEP and the media to achieve positive and effective management of malaria in the country.

She noted that the media as a critical stakeholder should continue to amplify the activities of the NMEP through balanced reportage.